Summary
Situated approximately one hour north of downtown Denver and just west of Interstate 25, Longmont is a city with a population of about 85,000 that straddles the boundary between Boulder and Weld Counties.
While Longmont ranks as the 13th most populous city in Colorado, it offers a distinctively relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal home base for those seeking fresh air, outdoor recreation, and breathtaking mountain views.
Day-trips to Denver are feasible for those wishing to explore the city’s cultural and historical offerings; however, there is no shortage of attractions and activities within Longmont itself.
Here are 14 activities to consider in and around Longmont, Colorado.
1. Art in Public Places
Art in Public Places represents a distinctive initiative aimed at enhancing the city’s aesthetic appeal. This collaborative effort involves municipal authorities alongside local artists and art enthusiasts, infusing the downtown area with a contemporary and inviting atmosphere.
The majority of commissioned artworks creatively repurpose the unsightly green electrical boxes scattered throughout the city, and informal art walks have become a popular method for exploring these installations.
The downtown district is bustling with restaurants, shops, and bars that warrant exploration; these venues attract visitors during the afternoons and evenings, particularly when offering food and drink specials for happy hour patrons.
2. Sandstone Ranch Park
Encompassing over 300 acres near the heart of Longmont, Sandstone Ranch Park is accessible throughout the year, offering visitors both recreational and historical engagement.
The park’s visitor and interactive learning centers are situated within a restored 1860s-era homestead, preserving its significant historical character.
This center houses numerous intriguing exhibits related to local settlement, culture, and economy, alongside an array of locally produced art.
Access to the park is via Highway 119, featuring several nature trails that provide stunning mountain views.
Wildlife sightings, particularly during the softer morning and afternoon light, are common along the ranch’s trails.
3. Wibby Brewing
Wibby Brewing is among Longmont’s newest craft breweries, swiftly garnering a dedicated clientele amongst local beer enthusiasts.
The founder of Wibby Brewing previously honed his skills at several renowned craft breweries before establishing his own venture within a repurposed facility that was once part of a corporate turkey processing plant.
This brewery offers an assortment of German and American-style brews, characterized by both traditional and innovative flavor profiles while providing a family- and pet-friendly environment. The location frequently hosts food trucks that serve street food that pairs excellently with the craft beers.
4. Ron Stewart Preserve at Rabbit Mountain
Regardless of who Ron Stewart was, his contributions have culminated in the establishment of a vast mountain preserve in Longmont, Colorado.
The Ron Stewart Preserve at Rabbit Mountain stretches across nearly 3,000 acres adjacent to the Rocky Mountain foothills, designated as a protected area since 1984.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore a network of nature trails, predominantly classified as easy to moderately challenging, catering to a diverse range of visitors.
This area is home to various wildlife, including elk, coyotes, and prairie dogs, which typically delight young animal enthusiasts.
5. The Longmont Museum
The Longmont Museum provides a captivating blend of art, history, science, and events, attracting a diverse audience with varied interests.
This institution is housed within a uniquely designed building. Alongside its permanent exhibits, it frequently features temporary displays from various institutions and private collections.
Many exhibits are interactive, encouraging engagement and participation, particularly appealing to younger audiences in search of intellectual stimulation.
Live performances, annual festivals, and family-oriented events complement the museum’s extensive activities calendar.
Visit their website for a detailed schedule of upcoming events.
6. The Agricultural Heritage Center
Agriculture has consistently played an integral role in Colorado’s economy, serving as a foundation for self-sufficiency before the prevalence of grocery stores.
The Agricultural Heritage Center is committed to preserving and promoting the region’s agricultural and pioneering heritage, making it an intriguing stop for visitors from various regions.
This center is situated within the historic dwelling of a 1860s pioneer who sought fortune in gold upon arriving in Longmont.
The site features a blacksmith’s workshop, barns, and live farm animals during the warmer months.
7. The Dougherty Museum
The Dougherty Museum represents a piece of local Americana, located on North 107th Street in Longmont; it houses the collection of an eccentric local farmer with a passion for automobiles.
Established in the late 1970s, the museum was inherited by the founder’s family upon his passing in 1988.
The collection includes exemplary models from automobile brands no longer in circulation—like Packard and Stanley—as well as farm machinery and pre-automobile transportation modes, and other fascinating historical artifacts.
The admission fee is quite reasonable, often less than a typical fast-food meal.
8. Union Reservoir Park
For fishing enthusiasts in the vicinity with some free time, Longmont boasts a variety of fishing opportunities.
The centerpiece of Union Reservoir Park is the reservoir, which spans over 700 acres. It hosts a diverse range of game fish, including bass, trout, walleye, and catfish.
The park is conveniently located just a few miles from Interstate 25. For those not interested in fishing, additional activities such as paddle boarding, windsurfing, hiking, and biking are available.
Additionally, numerous community festivals take place in the park, particularly during the summer months when the weather in Colorado is particularly enjoyable.
9. Skate Parks
Compared to many regions, Colorado residents tend to be active and health-conscious, with outdoor pursuits often taking priority during their leisure time.
For the young and dynamic crowd, skateboarding provides an attractive alternative to walking or cycling. Longmont features five skate parks that include half-pipes, quarter-pipes, rails, and various other fun and challenging installations.
Operating hours may vary by park, with some being tailored more for intermediate to advanced skaters, so it is prudent to check the city’s website for details before heading out.
Helmets are mandatory in city parks, and the use of knee and elbow pads is advisable for added safety.
10. Georgia Boys BBQ
Specializing in traditional comfort foods and barbecue that has been recognized as the best in the state by a prominent food and travel television program, Georgia Boys BBQ has quickly become a fixture in the Longmont dining scene since its inception in 2011.
Initially, the founders began selling barbecue from their apartment in Boulder before expanding their operations, ultimately transforming their ambitions into reality.
Georgia Boys offers an array of barbecue options including burnt ends, brisket, and ribs, accompanied by a selection of sauces and scrumptious sides like fries, hushpuppies, and onion rings.
11. Mile-Hi Skydiving Center
Situated on Airport Road in Longmont, the Mile-Hi Skydiving Center ranks as Colorado’s leading skydiving provider, operating a fleet of twin-engine turboprop aircraft capable of accommodating numerous jumpers on a daily basis.
The primary focus of the center remains on delivering a secure and exhilarating experience, a commitment they have maintained since the mid-1990s.
The experienced staff are equipped to cater to divers of all skill levels, providing options such as freestyle and tandem jumps.
Prior communication is advisable to inform them of your experience level and preferences before making a visit.
12. Sunset Golf Course
For nearly a century, Longmont’s Sunset Golf Course has been a beloved attraction for golf enthusiasts of all ages, known for its outstanding value in the region.
Despite being a 9-hole layout, it is well-suited for individuals with limited time, particularly parents accompanied by young beginners.
The course features tree-lined fairways, picturesque mountain views, and multiple tee box options to cater to women, seniors, and seasoned players.
Due to its affordability and prime location, it tends to fill up during peak times, so advance planning is advisable if you intend to visit during those hours.
13. Martini’s Bistro
For those in Longmont seeking culinary delights, a plethora of dining options ranging from casual to upscale awaits.
Located on Terry Street, Martini’s Bistro is acclaimed by previous diners for offering some of the finest Italian cuisine in the area.
The menu includes classic dishes such as pasta, parmesan, risotto, alongside seafood, steak, chicken, and salads to accommodate various dietary preferences.
Diners enjoy the extensive selection of locally brewed beers, west coast wines, and expertly crafted cocktails that complete the dining experience.
14. Dutch Bros. Coffee
In case you are unaware, Dutch Bros. Coffee operates the largest chain of drive-thru coffee outlets in the country, recently surpassing 300 locations.
Primarily found in western states, despite its chain status, Dutch Bros. shops maintain a distinctly local ambiance, setting them apart from most national coffee brands.
The Longmont branch is situated on Main Street, providing an array of hot and cold coffee options, as well as smoothies, shakes, and sodas.
Dutch Bros. locations are ideal for those in a hurry, with personable and friendly staff willing to offer recommendations for local attractions and activities during your visit.
